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How to Be a Lyricist

Lyricists create the words that accompany music to make songs. They write the meaningful, fun, silly, poetic and moving verses that play every minute on radio stations across the country. Breaking in as a lyricist can be a challenge, as the competition is fierce. You will need to learn about songwriting, write catchy lyrics, integrate them into a song and market your work to start a career in the sought-after field. A lyricist can be self-taught or trained in a formal setting and may work independently or be employed by a music production company.

Instructions

    • 1

      Educate yourself on how to write lyrics. Although it may look easy to come up with great lyrics, it can be a challenge to form words that go well with music and connect with the listener. Lyrics should contain a consistent theme, a memorable section, the ability to bring images to the listener and a fitting title.

    • 2

      Learn about song structure, especially in the music type that interests you. Although creativity allows you to deviate from the norm, songs are often structured similarly with main segments and repetitive verses. Learn in books, online and from listening to and studying various songs.

    • 3

      Take classes about songwriting. You will find full programs at schools of music and at schools with music departments, or you can take classes taught by individuals or music centers. Look for online classes or private tutors to help you with your skills.

    • 4

      Form a title as well as a theme when you are ready to write a song. Decide on the type of music you wish to produce (country, rap, pop). New writers often find it easier to write lyrics to the melody of a popular song to give them a feel as to how they will sound with music.

    • 5

      Write the verses to your song. Create a comfortable working environment that allows you to be creative and think. Experiment with different lines as you go through various versions of your song.

    • 6

      Write lyrics to more songs. Even as you are trying to get success with one set of lyrics, continue to write more. You never know which one will be recognized and see success, and the practice will help you hone your skills.

    • 7

      Find a composer with whom to work. This allows you to create a demo out of your work and increases your chances of being noticed. Look in classified advertisements, call a music school to see if anyone is looking for a lyricist or network with people that you know.

    • 8

      Market your lyrics and demo. Place it on the Internet to get exposure to listeners. Enter songwriting contests, submit demos to musicians and music producers and talk with those in the music industry to increase your chances of getting your lyrics noticed.

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